R-1 visas are non-immigrant visas that permit religious workers (ministers and foreign nationals working in religious vocations or occupations) to be temporarily employed by a non-profit, tax-exempt religious organization.

Despite the difficult conditions of the school, the students showed their dedication to the program. Turpin recalled a student that travelled by bus and by foot for more than 12 hours to get to school, but he wore a silk suit and tie to class every day.